Sustainable Waste Management in the Production of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants—A Systematic Review

Sara Marcelino, Pedro Dinis Gaspar and Arminda Paço ()
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Sara Marcelino: C-MAST—Centre for Mechanical and Aerospace Science and Technologies, Department of Electromechanical Engineering, University of Beira Interior, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal
Pedro Dinis Gaspar: C-MAST—Centre for Mechanical and Aerospace Science and Technologies, Department of Electromechanical Engineering, University of Beira Interior, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal
Arminda Paço: NECE—Research Unit in Business Sciences, Department of Management and Economics, University of Beira Interior, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal

Sustainability, 2023, vol. 15, issue 18, 1-20

Abstract: Without a Sustainable Waste Management (SWM) system, the growing demand for Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (MAPs) can also lead to a considerable increase in the waste generated by the industry. Since MAP residues have a notable potential to be valorised, the implementation of Circular Economy (CE) solutions can play a central role in converting waste into economic opportunities, while fostering a sustainable planet. CE helps to mitigate environmental and social risks caused by the accumulation of biomass by turning waste into valuable products. A systematic review was conducted, aiming to identify potential applications for the valorisation of MAP residues under a sustainable approach. A total number of 47 studies were analysed, providing a novel compilation of possibilities for decision makers in the MAP industry to develop new products for crop management or new businesses in food, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, chemical, paper, or building industries. Researchers in this field have focused more on the industrial value of MAP residues than on the empirical assessment of environmental and economic benefits. Further investigation should be undertaken to present empirical applications and to develop a decision support system to assess the sustainable performance of valorisation options.

Keywords: waste management; medicinal and aromatic plants; circular economy; sustainability; valorisation (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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